Super League: Widnes Vikings winger Patrick Ah Van signs new deal

Widnes Vikings winger Patrick Ah Van has signed a new two-year contract with the club.

Goalkicker Ah Van was the club's leading scorer in his first season with them, notching up 16 tries and 34 goals after he joined from Bradford Bulls.

He is currently ruled out with a knee injury but has been rewarded for his positive start to his time at the Stobart Stadium.

"Pat has proven to everybody that he has an eye for a try. He makes breaks, has the ability to kick goals and is a genuine all-round exciting winger," Widnes coach Denis Betts told the club's official website.

"There are very few wingers in the game who can actually carry the ball like he can and do the hard yards in their own half of the field, and still be blessed with such an impressive skill-set.

"When he was at Bradford, I could see something in his game and I was keen to work closely with him. Over the past two seasons, I think it's fair to say that we've definitely reaped the rewards of bringing him here to Widnes.

Positive

"Pat is a great acquisition, and it is a real positive for the club to be able to keep him here and ensure that he is an active part of what we are growing into.

"He is a fantastic bloke, who is well liked by his peers and everybody within the organisation. He's fun to be around but ultimately, he also knows when it's time to switch on."

The player himself is delighted to be remaining at the club as he looks to secure his place in Samoa's team for the World Cup at the end of the season.

"I enjoyed my time at the Bulls but since my move to Widnes, I think I've really progressed as a player and I know there are still a lot of improvements left in my game," he said.

"I was delighted to be offered a new deal. This club is really on the way up and we're only going to get better."